Mus - Saba:
Turkish researchers have discovered around 200 metal artifacts in an area believed to be the site of the historic Battle of Manzikert, fought in 1071 by Seljuk Sultan Alp Arslan against the Byzantine Empire-an event that opened the gates of Anatolia to the Turks.
According to the Turkish Anadolu News Agency, the discovery comes as part of a six-year project aimed at pinpointing the exact location of the battle in Muş Province, eastern Turkey. The effort is supported by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and coordinated with the General Directorate of Antiquities and Museums and Muş Alparslan University.
The project involves 40 experts from 12 Turkish universities. The latest phase of the work began on July 1, focusing on locating the precise site of what is considered one of the greatest victories in Islamic history.
The Battle of Manzikert took place on August 26, 1071, where Sultan Alp Arslan decisively defeated the Byzantine army led by Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes. The Seljuk victory paved the way for Turkish expansion into Anatolia—modern-day Turkey—and marked a major turning point in the region's history.
Pinpointing the Battle Site
During a surface survey between the areas of "Sabun Tepe" and the "Aytac Plain," located 7 kilometers from the center of the town of Manzikert, the team uncovered approximately 200 metallic items. These included arrowheads, coins, rings, seals, and horseshoe nails.
Project leaders believe that a significant portion of the artifacts likely belonged to cavalrymen who participated in the battle.
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